Nothing beats coming home to a warm, comforting meal that tastes like it’s been lovingly simmered for hours. This Lemon Basil Slow Cooker Chicken Recipe is one of those dishes that feels both fresh and cozy at the same time. Tender chicken breasts soak up bright lemony notes paired with fragrant dried basil and parsley, all slowly cooked over sweet carrots for a dish bursting with flavor and heartwarming goodness. It’s a simple, soulful meal that feels special without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this recipe is refreshingly straightforward. Each one plays an essential role, bringing balance through fresh citrus, earthy herbs, or sweetness to the overall dish.
- Chicken breasts: Choose boneless, skinless for easy shredding and effortless moisture absorption.
- Carrots: Chopped carrots create a natural bed, gently steaming and adding a subtle sweetness beneath the chicken.
- Chicken broth: This forms the flavorful cooking liquid, enhancing moisture and infusing the chicken as it cooks.
- Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is best, bringing a bright tang that beautifully cuts through the richness.
- Dried basil: Offers an herby, slightly peppery kick that complements the lemon perfectly.
- Dried parsley: Adds a mild, fresh note that balances the flavors without competing.
- Lemon pepper or salt and pepper: Seasoning the chicken with lemon pepper amps up the citrusy aroma; otherwise, keep it classic with salt and pepper.
How to Make Lemon Basil Slow Cooker Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Lemon Basil Broth
Start by whisking together the chicken broth, fresh lemon juice, dried basil, and parsley in a bowl. This aromatic mixture forms the heart of the slow cooker’s flavor, ensuring every bite is juicy and infused with those bright herbaceous notes.
Step 2: Layer the Carrots
Place the chopped carrots evenly along the bottom of your slow cooker. This base does double duty: it slowly softens and releases its natural sweetness, while also preventing the chicken from sticking.
Step 3: Add and Season the Chicken
Lay the chicken breasts right over the carrots, then season both sides generously with lemon pepper or a simple salt and pepper combo. This seasoning creates a delicate crust and builds an extra layer of flavor as the chicken slow cooks to tender perfection.
Step 4: Pour the Broth Mixture
Pour your prepared lemon basil broth gently over the chicken. This keeps the meat beautifully moist while letting those vibrant flavors mingle and deepen throughout the long cooking process.
Step 5: Cook Low and Slow
Cover and cook on high for 3 hours or on low for 5 to 6 hours. The slow cooker does all the work, breaking down the chicken to tender, juicy goodness while the carrots become melt-in-your-mouth perfect.
How to Serve Lemon Basil Slow Cooker Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes elevate the final plate and make it look as delightful as it tastes. Try sprinkling chopped fresh basil or parsley just before serving for a pop of color and an extra herbal punch. A few lemon zest shavings add an inviting citrus fragrance that butterflies right through the dish.
Side Dishes
This lemon basil slow cooker chicken pairs beautifully with light, complementary sides. Think fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad with vinaigrette. Steamed green beans or sautéed spinach work wonderfully too, adding fresh texture that contrasts with the softness of the chicken and carrots.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elevated touch, serve the chicken atop a bed of garlic-infused quinoa or couscous, drizzled with a little of the leftover broth as a delicate sauce. You can also shred the chicken and toss it into wraps or over warm flatbreads, turning leftovers into new delicious meals.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. The chicken stays moist and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
This recipe freezes really well, too. Portion the chicken and carrots along with some broth into freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 3 months, and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if it feels dry. This keeps your Lemon Basil Slow Cooker Chicken Recipe tasting fresh and juicy, just like the day you made it.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option that adds extra richness and tenderness. Just adjust the slow cooking time slightly if needed, as thighs often cook a bit faster and stay juicy.
Is dried basil the only herb that works?
If you’re out of dried basil, fresh basil can also be used—simply add it near the end of cooking to preserve flavor. Alternatively, oregano or thyme can bring a lovely twist to the recipe.
Can I make this recipe in the oven instead of a slow cooker?
Yes! Transfer the ingredients to a covered baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-40 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
How can I make this dish more tangy?
Add a bit more fresh lemon juice or sprinkle some lemon zest before serving to brighten up the flavors if you prefer a more pronounced citrus taste.
What if I don’t have lemon pepper seasoning?
No worries! Simply use salt and freshly ground black pepper, and maybe add a pinch of garlic powder or dried herbs to mimic some of the lemon pepper’s complexity.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Basil Slow Cooker Chicken Recipe is a total game-changer when you want something healthy, comforting, and insanely flavorful with minimal effort. The way the lemon and herbs gently infuse the chicken while it slow cooks makes it a comforting weeknight winner or a special meal to share. I can’t wait for you to try it out and enjoy every tender, zesty bite!
Print
Lemon Basil Slow Cooker Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours
- Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Lemon Basil Slow Cooker Chicken is a tender and flavorful dish perfect for a comforting and easy meal. Chicken breasts are cooked slowly with fresh lemon juice, aromatic basil, parsley, and a bed of sweet carrots, resulting in juicy poultry infused with bright citrus and herb notes. A simple, hands-off recipe ideal for busy days or anytime you want a wholesome, home-cooked meal with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4–5 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Vegetables
- 3 cups chopped carrots
Liquids & Seasonings
- 3/4 cup chicken broth
- 3 Tbsp lemon juice (about 4–5 fresh lemons recommended)
- 1 Tbsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- Lemon pepper or salt and pepper to season the chicken
Instructions
- Prepare the Broth Mixture: In a bowl, combine chicken broth, lemon juice, dried basil, and dried parsley. Stir well to blend the flavors and set aside.
- Layer Carrots: Place the chopped carrots evenly at the bottom of your slow cooker. This creates a flavorful bed and prevents the chicken from sticking.
- Add and Season Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on top of the carrots in a single layer. Season both sides of the chicken with lemon pepper or, if unavailable, salt and pepper.
- Pour Broth Mixture: Pour the prepared chicken broth and lemon herb mixture evenly over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated.
- Cook Slowly: Cover and cook in your slow cooker for 3 hours on HIGH or 5-6 hours on LOW, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Notes
- For best flavor, use fresh lemon juice in place of bottled lemon juice.
- Chicken breasts can be substituted with thighs if you prefer darker meat.
- Add other root vegetables like potatoes or parsnips for a heartier meal.
- Adjust seasonings according to your taste, adding more lemon pepper for extra zest.
- Ensure the slow cooker is at the correct setting to avoid undercooking or overcooking.
